Share

Switchback Session 2018-2019 Snowboard Bindings Review

Share

After its barnstorming debut last year, Switchback’s AERON base remains one of the best foundations for a binder that we’ve ever seen. The Switchback Session snowboard bindings remain the brand’s flagship pair, thanks to all-mountain chops that will pass muster with the most discerning of riders.

This year there are two different versions available. The regular Session (which you can see in the video below), and the Session Raw (pictured). There’s not a massive difference between the two – hence why they’re both the same price – but the Raw version has an un-padded highback and lighter ‘Miller’ style toe strap. Essentially, it’s pared back for a more responsive ride.

“The overmoulded aluminium structure of the AERON base allows for quick edge changes, and is as strong as an ox”

The original Session is no slouch though; the overmoulded aluminium structure of the AERON base allows for quick edge changes, and is as strong as an ox. And we know this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, the fact that the nylon-metal combo looks a bit like Arnie in T2 is no bad thing.

The Eames straps are extremely user-friendly without being too bulky, and work well with any boots. Even with the EVA padding, the highback is pretty stiff, and so is best suited to more confident riders who want plenty of support.

“The customisation options make it easier than ever to get just the right fit with your boot”

Switchback’s signature modular system is a big draw for the Session. You can buy different straps and highbacks in order to fine-tune your setup to the conditions, and you can even take your highbacks off for a unique, surf-like experience in powder. Thanks to the tool-less system, you can pop ‘em off in no time at all.

On top of all of that, the customisation options make it easier than ever to get just the right fit with your boot. Whether it’s the Switchback Session or Session Raw you go for, expect a premium ride.

Tester’s Verdict

“I was keen to get my hands on a pair of Sessions again this year, to see if they were as good as I remembered. Good news – they are.

“A chassis that feels absolutely indestructible”

They’re not the lightest out there, but if you factor strength into the equation then few other models come close. A bit of extra grammage has resulted in a chassis that feels absolutely indestructible.

So if you’re looking for something that can handle a winter’s worth of gnarly lines without any issues, and that’s also among the most comfortable bindings out there, the Switchback Session should be on your wish list.”

Newsletter Terms & Conditions

Please enter your email so we can keep you updated with news, features and the latest offers. If you are not interested you can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell your data and you'll only get messages from us and our partners whose products and services we think you'll enjoy.